Written by Isabella Moss, (Oberlin College), Student Correspondent for CET Brazil, (Social Justice), Fall 2026
Orientation: Bateria at PUC
Our week-long orientation in São Paulo really helped us get to know our way around our neighborhood, Perdizes, and the city at large. As a musically inclined person myself, one of the highlights of orientation was the bateria lesson that took place at our host university, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo (or PUC for short, pronounced “pookie”). In stations, we learned how to play the surdo (bass drum), chocalho (shakers), caixa (snare drum), and tamborim (small frame drum). We not only learned new skills, but we made some friends at PUC as well!
A few days later, on the first day of classes, we attended two bateria performances at PUC: one in the morning, three at night. The energy was truly unmatched with everybody dancing, chanting, and catching up with their friends.
Field Trip: Museu do Ipiranga
Situated on the grounds of a beautiful garden, the newly renovated Museu do Ipiranga was the perfect field trip location for my anthropology class, Environmental Issues and Social Impact on Brazilian Traditional Populations. Here, we talked about constructed narratives and the portrayal of Black and Indigenous people in Brazilian history, specifically during colonialism and during its independence.
The museum also had a lookout where we got a 360 view of the city. Fun fact! São Paulo is the largest city in the southern hemisphere with over 22 million inhabitants, making it a major cultural and financial center.
Extra-curricular Activity: Pedra Grande Trail
CET offers a range of extra-curricular (optional) activities where students can further explore the city. Recently, a group of CET students and local roommates went to Pedra Grande, a park that is about two hours out from the city center. The 4.5 mile hike was the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon, providing us with beautiful greenery and the most incredible view at the top.
It truly felt like you could see the entire city. We were lucky as the sun was shining, giving us a perfectly clear view of São Paulo. We were also able to see monkeys, or micos, in the park when we got back down. All of us had an amazing time relaxing and getting to know each other better.
Overall, my first month in São Paulo has been super positive. Being in a city as big as São Paulo can be overwhelming, but there are many ways to step back: parks, museums, quiet cafés, and more. This city truly has something for everyone, and if you’re ever looking for things to do, CET staff and local roommates can help you find your way.